Japan-backed smart grid to pilot test in Batangas

MANILA, Philippines — A technical assistance project supported by the Japanese government would pave the way for the pilot testing of smart grid in Batangas to demonstrate technology that can improve the ability of power cooperatives to prevent power interruptions.

Japan’s official development assistance (ODA) arm, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is working with the National Electrification Administration (NEA) for a two-year piloting of the smart grid technology in Batangas II Electric Cooperative Inc. to start in the fourth quarter of the year.

Under the Collaboration Program for Disseminating Japanese Technology for Electricity Distribution System and Management in the Philippines, Japanese firm Tepco Power Grid and its affiliate firm Takaoka Toko would be working with JICA to install the equipment in the Batangas electric cooperative.

“As development partner of the Philippines, we recognize the crucial role of supporting reliable energy supply to help grow Philippine investments and overcome the vulnerability of the country. JICA’s development cooperation activities will continue to share Japanese expertise to address challenges that affect Philippine global competitiveness and long-term growth,” said Tetsuya Yamada, JICA senior representative.

JICA said the smart grid technology can be adopted by Philippine electric cooperatives to improve their system reliability and resilience to natural disasters.

Japan is known for its advanced and resilient electricity distribution system despite disturbances from extreme weather and natural disasters. Takaoka Toko, for instance, has installed a transformer in the Philippines in 1975 and the equipment remains to be in use until today.